Amidst the political fervor surrounding the recent Mexican elections, the aquaculture sector in Sinaloa is gearing up to reignite its efforts to combat the illegal influx of Ecuadorian shrimp into Mexico. Despite previous protests and calls for action, the issue persists, with an estimated five trailers of smuggled shrimp entering Mexico’s southern border daily, saturating national markets and undercutting local producers.

Producers Demand Action

Voices within the aquaculture industry have voiced their frustration at the federal government’s perceived indifference to the issue. Recent protests in Mexico City have aimed to shed light on the plight of local producers, with plans to extend these demonstrations to Sinaloa and other affected states. Cooperative leaders lament the illegal exploitation of shrimp stocks, warning of dire consequences for production levels as the new season approaches.

Despite regulations prohibiting shrimp harvesting in certain areas, reports suggest that illegal activities continue unchecked, further exacerbating the challenges faced by local producers. Emilio Valenzuela López, leader of the Las Abejas cooperative in Boca del Río, highlights the severity of the situation, emphasizing the impact on reproductive shrimp populations and the broader ecosystem.

Challenges on the Horizon

The looming specter of rising diesel prices threatens to further disrupt shrimp fishing operations, with potential repercussions for the entire industry. With a significant portion of the high seas shrimp fleet already inactive due to closed seasons and economic uncertainties, Carlos Sotelo Monge, president of the Federation of High Seas Fishing Cooperatives of Topolobampo, paints a bleak outlook for the sector.

Despite the challenges, hope remains among members of the Federation of Fishing Cooperatives, who pin their aspirations on the prospect of rainfall to rejuvenate reservoir levels. Optimism abounds as plans to sow fingerlings in August offer a glimmer of hope for a much-needed recovery in production and sales by year-end.

Navigating Navy Day

Meanwhile, fishermen in southern Sinaloa find themselves navigating choppy waters as Navy Day approaches. Traditionally a time for celebration, this year’s festivities are marred by restrictions on the sale of alcohol due to ongoing election-related measures, adding to the woes of an already beleaguered industry.